Owl VS Hawk: Physical Characteristics
Owls and hawks are both considered to be raptors, a term that applies to birds of prey. However, owls and hawks are in separate raptor groups. Though both are true birds of prey, the differences between the two make it quite clear which is which!
Physical Characteristics To Identify Owls
Owls are most easily identified by their large eyes and heads, and particularly by their ability to rotate their heads up to 270 degrees. Owls have heads that blend in with the thickness of their overall bodies. Most species of owls are much larger than hawks, though individual size differs. Their bodies are stouter and less streamlined overall, making them less agile but often stronger than a hawk of comparable size. While not an exhaustive list, other key features common in most owl species are:
Heads are bigger compared to body mass
Covered with thick feathers in a wide range of colors
A variety of striped, dotted, or patterned feathers
Short, curved beak that tilts down
Strong feet with two front and two back toes that can swivel to the front with a feathered or furry appearance
Razor-sharp talons up to four inches long or more
Feathers with fibers that minimize sound for silent flight
Shorter tails
Binocular vision in nocturnal conditions
Parabolic ears
Females are darker than males but slightly larger
Physical Characteristics To Identify Hawks
Hawks are known for their slim, streamlined bodies, smaller heads, and wickedly sharp black beaks. Hawks are smaller on average than owls, though this varies by individual species as well. Other common characteristics that identify a hawk are:
Head is smaller than body mass
Sleek feathers that contour close to the body
Various colorations with minimal patterns
Possible dark streaks or spots on the neck, or white streaks on wings
Alert and erect posture when perched
Some species have upper teeth called Tomial teeth
Yellow feet with a scaly appearance
Three front toes, one back toe
Curved black talons around two inches long
Sleek, thick, broad feathers for a fast and efficient fight on rising thermals
Long tail-feathers
Owl VS Hawk: Similar Habitats, Different Behavior
Owls and hawks often share the same habitat, but their behaviors are as different as night and day and they do not often compete for food or territory. In fact, the only comparison one can make between owls and hawks is hunting for live prey. Once the behavior and hunting methods of each are fully investigated, we may be able to answer the question of which would win in a fight, if these two animals were likely to encounter each other at all!
Owls Are Nocturnal Predators
Owls are nocturnal and exclusively hunt at night. Owl hoots are the most recognizable bird call and are most active between late evening to sunrise. Owls can be single, mated, or even live in small families to roost together. This is to keep warm or to protect each other from predators or competition. Owls have the gift of silent flight, and do not travel on thermals as frequently and flap their wings more than hawks. Other environmental and behavior traits common for owls
Mate for life
Crush prey with their talons and consume when caught
Stalk prey using sight and sound, then ambush silently by knocking into smaller animals and blinding them with their wings
Prey on the nests of other birds, particularly crows, who mob them during the day in retaliation
Courtship consists of the male calling the female and presenting her with gifts of food and nesting provisions
Eggs are white to brown with splotches of lighter color
Hawks Hunt During The Day
Hawks are diurnal, meaning they only hunt during the daylight hours. A hawk is active between sunrise and sunset and attacks with speed and precision by diving at the target. They snatch prey with their powerful beak and carry it off to eat in a secure place. Only prey too heavy to carry is consumed immediately. Hawks mate for life but stay solitary outside of mating season when both parents hatch the eggs together. Other Environmental and Behavioral Traits Common For Hawks
Hawks do not live in flocks, and groups of flying hawks are only seen when migrating
Fly by flapping and gliding on thermals
Can dive in a teardrop shape at over 220KM an hour
Will only consume dead flesh when sick or old
Courtship is a dominant display of agile flying and high-pitched sounds
Eggs are tinged blue or white with brown spotting
Owl VS Hawk: Which Is More Likely To Win In A Fight?
When it comes down to it, hawks are powerful animals, and both owls and hawks are on our list for most dangerous birds. However, we held on to one fact about each of these raptors that truly answers all our questions of who wins in a fight. Hawks are far more agile than owls, but owls are often much stronger. Owls have truly dangerous talons that can pierce a human skull, but hawks are quicker. So, are they evenly matched? Turns out, in this animal fight it would all come down to brains. Or, how the hawk and owl both have brains uniquely suited to their hunting style. Hawks have advanced cranial nerves that allow them to quickly judge a situation. This has the added benefit of a hawk taking much fewer risks than other birds. Unfortunately, that sense of reason is why a hawk will lose a fight against an owl of comparable size. Owls have an folkloric reputation for being wise. In fact, owls have brains that are dedicated to their excellent eyesight. Their lack of extra brain space has left no room in the owl for sensing fear. Combined with the silent attack, nocturnal hunting, and massive attack power, a hawk would lose the fight. However, hawks are far more rational than the than the fearless predator known as the owl. They are unlikely to put themselves in the position to be attacked at all!
